Courage
Once/Now/Then/After Series
on Goodreads (656)
What’s inside...
There are many kinds of courage. Big acts of courage and the everyday kinds that normal, ordinary people exhibit all the time, like 'being the first to make up after an argument,' or 'going to bed without a nightlight.' Bernard Waber explores the many varied kinds of courage and celebrates the moments, big and small, that bring out the hero in each of us. Now a lap board book.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
0-3
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What does being brave mean to you?
Can you think of a time when you had to be courageous like one of the characters in the book?
How do you feel when you do something that scares you?
Why do you think it's important to have courage?
How can you be brave for others?
Tip: Role play these questions
Create a comfortable and quiet reading space to discuss the book without distractions.
Show interest in their thoughts and feelings related to the book’s events and characters.
Share your own experiences with courage to help them relate their feelings to real-life situations.
Praise their insights and experiences, emphasizing the value of facing fears as a part of growth.
Encourage them to draw or write about a personal moment of bravery inspired by the story to reinforce the theme.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding and Overcoming Fear
Explanation: Through the character's journey, children see various forms of bravery, acknowledging that courage can be found in both big and small acts.
Real-World Application: Children learn to identify their fears and understand that it's normal to feel scared, helping them face their own challenges with confidence.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Support
Explanation: The story illustrates how supporting others can also be an act of bravery, teaching children about empathy and helping others.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to be supportive friends and classmates, understanding others' feelings and providing help when needed.
Example Lesson: Self-Acceptance
Explanation: Characters in the book display different kinds of courage, reinforcing the idea that everyone is unique and that’s something to be proud of.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to embrace their own individuality and respect others' differences, promoting a healthy self-image and social interactions.
Example Lesson: Trying New Things
Explanation: The story showcases characters experiencing new situations bravely, which underlines the importance of being open to new experiences.
Real-World Application: Kids are inspired to step out of their comfort zones and try new activities, which is crucial for their development and learning.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Small Acts of Bravery
Explanation: The book highlights that even small acts, like tasting a new food or speaking in front of a group, require courage.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children recognize and celebrate their everyday acts of courage, boosting their confidence and willingness to face new challenges.